Historic building to provide home for small businesses

Plans have been approved to breathe new life into a historic Darlington building as part of a wider regeneration project for the town.

Number 156 Northgate, which was constructed in the early 19th century and was home to the prominent Quaker Robson family, is to be redeveloped into high quality office space for small businesses, bringing more jobs to the area. Funded by the UK government, the project is a key development in our plans to transform Northgate and promote social and economic growth in the area.

Over the years, the building has had a series of owners and has been redeveloped and amended on several occasions. However, it has managed to retain many of its original features and was bought by the Council in June 2023.

The four storey, grade II* listed building, which is currently vacant, will undergo a series of alterations to repair and preserve the buildings fabric and improve accessibility; making sure it remains fit for use by a modern audience. Planned works include alterations to paving at the side of the property to allow level access, the introduction of an internal ramp and the demolition of a conservatory and external staircase to the rear of the building which were added in the 1990s. Mechanical and electrical services will also be updated and the building will receive new finishes and decoration throughout.

A contractor is soon to be sought for the development and we aim to have the offices available for use by the end of next year.

Angela Howey, chair of the Town Deal Board, said: "I am delighted that planning has been approved for this stand out building which has sadly fallen into disrepair.  The project will not only help to preserve this important asset for future generations, but will contribute to the town's economic future providing high quality accommodation for business looking to open or relocate in the area.

Cllr Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, said: “Darlington is a town on the up and more businesses are seeking to invest here. This development provides an ideal opportunity to preserve what is an important historical asset, address business need, increase footfall in the town centre and drive investment into an area of the town which has been largely neglected for too long. This is the next step in our journey to rejuvenate and breathe new life into Northgate, supporting local businesses and people living in the immediate area."